Common Fumitory is a
native
annual plant of the UK, typically found growing in cropland, chalky ground and waste ground, to a mature height of up to 50cm.
Common Fumitory was introduced into the UK before the sixteenth century. The name 'Fumitory' is derived from Latin meaning 'smoke of the earth', which is thought to describe the appearance of the plant's indistinct greyish-green leaves.
Botanic classification and naming: Common Fumitory is a member of the Poppy (Papaveraceae) family. The genus name
'Fumaria' identifies the plant as a Fumitory and its species name 'officinalis' means 'herbal medicinal plant'.
Concerns: Although traditionally used as a herbal medicine, Common Fumitory is a toxic plant affecting the circulatory, nervous and respiratory systems.
Benefits: Pollinated by bees and flies.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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